Material handling device



July 31, 1962 H. A. GORJANC 3,046,909

E MATERIAL HANDLING DEVICE Filed Feb. 24, 1960 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 yINVENTURS .j HENRY A. Goa/ANC WMM, .1,

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A Trams/ys 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 INVENTORS H. A` GORJANC MATERIAL HANDLINGDEVICE July 31, 1962 Filed Feb. 24, 19Go a Si,

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July 31, 1962 H. A, GQRJANC MATERIAL HANDLING DEVICE 5 Sheets-Sheet 3Filed Feb. 24, 1960 lllll( f July 31, 1962 H. A, GoRJANc MATERIALHANDLING DEVICE:

5 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed Feb. 24. 1960 WMM W l I I ATTORNEYS ilnitedbiases @at-enr 3,946,909 MATERIAL HANDLING DEVICE Henry A. Gorjanc,Wicklie, Ohio, assigner to The Cleveland Crane & Engineering Company,Wicklie, Ohio, a corporation of Ohio Filed Feb. 24, 1960, Ser. No.10,702 6 Claims. (Cl. 104-102) This invention relates to materialhandling systems of the overhead monorail type, and more particularly tosuch a system having a motor operated switch therein for selectivelyconnecting a single rail on one said of the switch with any one of aplurality Aof rails on the other side of the switch to provide aplurality of courses for carriers traveling in either direction alongthe rails to follow.

A principal object of the invention is the provision of an improvedmaterial handling system including a monorail switch shiftable betweenat least three operative positions by a reversible electric motor, themotor being responsive to a switch control circuit which is conditionedupon actuation to energize the motor for shifting of the switch to apreselected position, and which circuit will remain so conditioned eventhough there -be a power failure so that upon a return of the power themotor will continue to shift the switch to its preselected position.

Another object of the invention is the provision of a material handlingsystem of the above mentioned character which comprises conductor barsassociated with the rails for providing electric current to carriers orthe like traveling thereon, and in which the switch control circuitcomprises means for controlling both the energization of the switchoperating motor and the actuation of bafe or blocking contactors forde-energizing conductor bars leading into the switch to thereby preventa carrier from run-1 ning into an open switch.

Still another object of the invention is the provision in 'an improvedoverhead monorajl system of a switch including a switch operating andbaffling control circuit which comprises latching type relay means forcontrolling both the energization of the switch operating motor and theactuation of the baflie contactors, and which circuit comprises limitswitches which act directly to de-energize the motor and the balecontactors when the switch moves into a selected operative position.

The invention may be further briefly described as residing in certaincombinations and arrangements of parts and other advantages thereof willbe apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains from thefollowing description of a presently preferred embodiment described withreference to the accompanying sheets of drawings forming a part of thisspecification, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary plan view of a material handling systemembodying this invention and having a three position motor operatedswitch therein;

FlG. 2 is an enlarged sectional View of a portion of the switch of FIG.1 taken along line 2 2 thereof with portions broken away;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the switch of FiG.1 taken along line 3 3 thereof;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary top View on an enlarged scale showing the latchmechanism of the switch of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view approximately on line 5--5 of FIG. 4;

FlG. 6 is an end view of the latch mechanism with parts in section andbroken away;

FIG. 7 illustrates the positions of the limit switches when the switchis aligned for use of the left track as illustrated in FlG. 1;

FiG. 8 illustrates the positions of the limit switches when the switchis aligned for use of the center track;

FIG. 9 illustrates the positions of the limit switches when the switchis aligned for use of the right track;

FlG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the switch and baie contactor controlcircuit, and

FIG. 11 is a diagram of the conductor bar and baliie contactor circuit.

While the present invention is susceptible to embodiment in eithershifting tongue-type or shifting rail-type track switches, theparticular switch shown in the drawings as exemplifying the invention isof the shifting railtype. lt is to be understood, however, that there isno intention to [thereby limit the invention to the specific formsdisclosed, but it is my intention to cover all modications andalternative constructions falling within the spirit and scope of Itheinvention as expressed in the appended claims.

Referring to the illustrated switch 10 of the embodiment of thisinvention, an outer or fixed frame assembly 11 supports an inner ormovable frame assembly 12 which is adaptable to use in switches ofeither the shifting tongue or shifting rail type and, for purposes ofillustrating one embodiment of the invention, is here described ashaving three movable rail sections 13, 14 and 15 and which may beshifted to any of three operative positions to determine which of threerails 16, 17 and 18 on one side of the switch will be connected with asingle rail 19 on the other side of the switch to provide a continuouspath for a carrier passing through lthe switch.

In the operative position illustrated in FIG. 1, the rail 19 and therail 16 areconnected or aligned by the movable rail section 13 which iscurved, thereby providing a curved path of travel for a carrier. Theinner frame 12 is shiftable in either direction by means of a reversibleelectric motor 20, and maybe shifted to the left from the illustratedposition to a center position with the rail section 14, which isstraight, connecting the rails 19 and 17 to provide a straight path oftravel for a carrier. The frame 12 may be shifted still farther to theleft to assume a position with the rail section 15, which is curved,connecting the rail 19 with the right hand rail 18. l

lt will Vbe recognized that carriers may pass through the switch 10 ineither direction so that a carrier entering the switch on the rail 19may eXit on any one of the rails 16, 17, or 18 depending upon theposition of the inner frame 12, anda carrier may enter from any of rails16, 17 and 18 and exit on rail 19. The reversible electric motor 20 isunder the control of a circuit, more `fully described hereafter, whichincludes two cam actuated limit switches 21, 22 which are preferablymounted on the movable frame 12 and are adapted to be actuated by cammeans such as cam elements 23, 24, 25 and 26 adjustably mounted on theXed frame 11.

When the movable frame 12 is occupying one of the mentioned operativepositions, it is held `from moving therefrom by a solenoid operatedlocking means, indicated generally at 27. The solenoid of the lockingmeans 27 and the motor 20 are energizable by the above mentioned controlcircuit to release and shift the frame 12 to an operative position otherthan the one occupied; and the limit switches 21 and 22 will, at theproper point in the movement of the frame 12, de-energize the motor 20and the solenoid of the locking means, releasing the latter to securethe frame i12 in the selected operative position.

The r-ails 16, 17, 18 and 19 and the movable rail sections 13, 14 and 15are of conventional monorail construction and will not, therefore, bedescribed in detail. Suii'ice it to say that each includesa rail memberhaving a web 30 terminating at its lower edge in horizontal flangeportions 31, 32 extending from the opposite sides of the web forsupporting the wheels of the overhead monorail carriers (not shown) andhaving upper flange portions 33.

A plurality of conductor bars 35 are associated with Y thereby. In`order to prevent a` carrier lfromfrunning into an open switch, means.are provided to de-energize portions 35a, 35h, 35crand35d -of theconductor bars 35 associated with the entering rails such as 16, 17, 13or Y 1-9 respectively, :andportions'e associated withthe rail sections13, 14 and 15, during shifting of the frame 12 vfrom one of.itsoperating positions to another. The conductor barportions to bede-ener'gized are separated from the main conductor bar .portions V35 byair gaps. The de-energZ-ation -is referred to as blocking or baiilingand )is automatically effected by blocking contactors 36, 37, 38 and 39forming part of the controlrcircuit more fully described hereafter.

The outer frame assembly 1.1 is supported in any conventionalmanner`above therails 16, 17, 1S and 19 and comprises spaced horizontalinverted T-shaped members 40 .and41 extending transversely of the railsand having lower inwardly extending ilange portions 42 for slidablysupporting the inner or movable frame assembly 12. The members 40 and 41.are connected at their ends by left and right side members 43, u44having inwardly directed flange portions `45 and downwardly directedportions 46. In addition, the outer frame 1.1 comprises a transverseangle member 47 extending between and Welded to the side members 43, 44midway betweenV the members 40, 41. The angle member 47 .serves as aframe locking abutment means and yas -a support for Vthe limit switch`operating cam means 23, 24, 25 and 26.

r'I'he inner frame assembly 12, including the rail sections13, 14,15.comprises L-shaped or angle members 50 and 51 parallel and adjacentto the T-shaped members 40, 41 respectively, and each having ahorizontal portion v52 overlying one of the adjacent ange portions 4Z ofthe T-shaped members, rand each having a depending vertical portion 53having an angle member 55 secured thereto as by welding and itselfwelded, riveted, or otherwise secured tothe upper flange portions 33 `ofthe rail sections l13, 14 and for support thereof. Any suitableantifriction means .such as roller bearings 57 may be interposed betweenthehorizontal portions 52 of the members 50, 51 and the adjacenthorizontal flange portions `42 of the T- `shaped membersl 40, 41 tosupport the inner frame assembly .12 on the Vouter frame assembly 11 andto facilitate the shifting of the inner frame assembly. Movement oftheinner frame assembly 12 relative to the outer frame V'assembly 11 islimited by adjustable stops V58 carried by members v59 Welded to thevertical anges of the T- shapedmembers 40, 41.

yThe reversible electric motor is preferably asingle phase A.C. motor. Agear reduction means Y61 is conveniently provided on the motor 20 androtatesa sprocket .62 in driving engagement with a flexible transmissionmeans in the `form of a chain 63 which leads around `a sprocket64suitably supported on the frame member 43 through which the chainpasses in openings 'provided therefor. Y A

The ends of thechain 63 are connected lto opposite endsof a rod 66forming part of a resilient or shock absorbing connection to theinnerormovable frame yassembly 12. A base plate 67 yis suitablysupported `across-the rail sections'14and 115 and servesV as a supportfor'the hereafter described shock absorbing connectionand the1ockingmeans.27.- V l i Asis best illustrated in FIGS. F4, l5, `and`6,the `base plate 67 is provided with a pair of bifurcated uprightmembers 69 and 70 extending therefrom. A coil compression spring 72surroundsthe-rod 66 and Vis conned between the uprightmembersa69 and 70and between end Washers 73; A cotterpin 74 or the like Apasses throughthe rod 66 outside .of each end washer 7,3y and is adapted to passthrough the bifurcation in each of theupright members v69, 70. It willvbe apparent` thattheymove- 67, comprises'a spring loaded plunger 80which is adaptedY to be received in openings S1, 82 and 83 inthe 'anglemember 47, and serves to secure the movable frame l12 in Vany of itsoperative positions. The plunger $0 is reciprocably carried inatube 85and has an extension 86 terminating iny a threaded end. Y

The tube'85 has secured at one end an anglefmember 88, a depending leg89 of which coniines a compression spring 90 in the tube, which springbiases or urges the plunger 80 into engagement with the abutment orangle member 47. A cross plate or bar 92 lying adjacent the angle leg 89has :an opening rreceiving the :extension S6 of the plunger 80, and theextension has a retaining and adjusting nut thereon. The spring 90 `actsto extend the plunger 80 and normally draws the cross bar 92 toward theleg 39 of the angle member S8. Y Y

An operating lever 93'is pivotallysecured at 94 to the angle member 88and has depending side ears 95 in engagement withy the cross bar 92. The-lever 93 is connected by a link 96 to the armature 97 of an actuatingsolenoid 98 forming Ia part of the locking means 27. When the solenoidis energized, upon closing of a control switch 100, 101 or 102 of thecontrol circuit (FG. 10) described hereafter, the armature pulls in,rocking the lever 93 and camming one of the ears 95 against the crossbar 92 as shown in dotted lines in FIG. 4, thereby reti-acting theplunger 80 against the action of the spring 90 and releasing the frame12 for shifting movement.

In the control circuit illustrated in FIG. l0, the control Vswitches100, 101 and 162 are adapted to condition the circuit to move the innerframe 12 to its left rail aligning position as viewed in FIG. Al, to itsright rail aligning position, vand to its center rail aligning positionrespectively. The control switches 1100, 101 and 102 are .illustrated inFIG. l0 as being switches which are adapted to be positioned along therails 16, 13 and 17 respectively to be tripped or closed byself-propelled carriers approaching the switch 10 and thereby effect thethrowing of the switch to the proper positions to receive the carners.

The circuit of FIG. l0 illustrates all of the relays with theirrespective contacts in their normally open and normally closedpositions/that is with their actuating coils deenergized and with thelatching type relays unlatched. rThe limit switches 21 and 22 are of themaintained contact type, and the Switch 21 has contacts 105 and 106while the switch 22 has contacts 107 and 108. In FIGS. 7 and l0 thecontacts 105 and 107 are shown closed and thecontacts 106 and 108 areshown open, thereby corresponding to the FIG. l position of the frame 12in which the left hand rail 16 is connected yor aligned with 'the rail19 bythe rail section 13.

A switch 110 is mounted so as to be actuated to a closed position whenthe locking nose or plunger 801s 'released by the solenoid 9S to extendntofan opening in the abutment member 47 for lockingV the movable.

frame 12 in a selected position. The closing of the switch 110 uponlocking ofthe frame 12 ina selected operative positioncompletes acircuit which may be traced from a power line L1 through a conductor1.11, switch 110, ak

conductor 112, the actuating coil of a control relay 114, and aconductor v toa power line L2. The energiza- .tion 'of the relay 114closes its normally vopen contacts 116, A117, `11S and 119, andY opensits normally closed.

closed'contacts 107 of the limit switchV 22, conductors 124, 125, nowclosed contacts 113 of the relay 114, a conductor 126, the actuatingcoil of the blocking relay 36 and a conductor 127 to the power line L2.The nor mally open contacts 131), 131, 132 and 133 of the blocking relay36 are thereby held closed with the contacts 131, 132 and 133 completinga circuit including conductors 134, 135 and 136 (FIG. l1) for energizingthe conductor bar portions 35a associated with the left rail 16. Thecontacts 13@ complete a circuit from the power line L1 throughconductors 138, 139, 140 and the actuating coil of the blockingcontactor 39.

The last mentioned contactor is thereby energized and its normally opencontacts 141, 1412 and 143 are closed to effect the energizaticn of theconductor bar portions 35d and 35e through conductors 134, 145 and.146.

When the switch 14) is in the FIG. l position the conductor bar portions3517 and 35C, which are controlled by the blocking contactors 37 and 33respectively in a manner more fully described hereafter, are notenergized and prevent the possibility of a carrier running along rails17 or 18 into the switch 1i?.

The switch 1G can be thrown from its ieit rail aligning positiondescribed above to either its center rail aligning position or its rightrail aligning position by closing of either the center control switch162 or the right control switch i) respectively. Closing ofthe leftcontrol switch 191 would have no efect since the limit switch 22 has itscontacts 16S open preventing the completion of any circuits through theswitch 191 from the power line L1.

In order to shift the movable frame 12 to the left to assume a positionin which the right hand rail 13 is aligned with the rail 19, the controlswitch 101B is closed, for eX- ample by a carrier approaching the switch19 along the rail 18. Closing of the switch 166 completes a circuitwhich may be traced from the power line L1 through the contacts 105 ofthe limit switch 21, conductors 150, 151, switch 1414), conductor 152,normally closed contacts 153 of a latching relay 154, a conductor 155,the latch coil 156 of a latching type relay 157 and a conductor 158 tothe power line L2.

The completion of this circuit energizes the coil 156 of the latchingrelay 157 and causes that relay to be mechanically latched, therebyclosing and holding its normally open contacts 169, 161, 162 and 163,and opening its normally closed contacts 164 and 165. lThe now closedcontacts 162 of the latching relay 157 complete a circuit for energizingthe solenoid $8 of the locking means 27, which circuit may be tracedfrom the power line L1 through the contacts 165 of the limit switch 21,the conductor 159, normally closed contacts 165 of a latching type relay166, conductors 167, 163 and 169, the now closed contacts 162,conductors 170, 171 and the solenoid 98 to the power line L2, therebydrawing in the armature 97 and withdrawing the plunger 8% from theopening 83 in the member 47 and releasing the trarne 12 for movementunder the intiuence of the reversible motor 20.

The withdrawal of the plunger 30 opens the switch 110 de-energizing thecontrol relay 114 `and permitting its normally closed contacts to closeand its normally open contacts to open, of which the contacts 121 effectenergization of the motor 20 from the power line L1 through contacts105, conductor normally closed contacts 165 of relay 166, conductors167, 163, the contacts 121, now closed contacts'161 of relay 157,conductor 175 to terminal T3 of the motor 2i? and conductor 176 to thepower yline L2. The now closed contacts 16? of the relay 157 connectterminals T1 and T2 of the motor 20 for the starting thereof in adirection to move the frame 12 toward the selected position for aligningthe rail 18 with the rail 19.

Additionally, the opening of the'contacts 118 of the control relay 114serves to break the previously described circuit for energizing theblocking contactor 36, thereby permitting the contacts 131, 132 and 133thereof to open de-energizing the conductor bar portions 35a, and thecontacts 13G thereof to open cle-energizing the blocking contactor 39.De-energization of the contactor 39, and the consequent opening of thecontacts 141, 142 and 143, serves to de-energize the conductor barportions 35d and 35e by breaking the previously described energizingcircuit therefor. The now open contacts 116, 117 and 119 ot the controlrelay 114 prevent the energization of the other blocking contactors 37and 3S during the movement of the frame 12. The operation of `theseblocking contactors and their circuits will become apparent as thedescription proceeds.

As the yiframe 12 -rnoves to the left lcarrying with it the limitswitches 21 and 22, and as it passes through the center position, thelimit switch 22 will be actuated by the cam member 25 shifting thatswitch to lopen its contacts 1137 and to close its contacts `163,however this will have no immediate eiect on the circuit as -it ispresently conditioned other than to yselect which of the blockingcontactors will be energized at the completion of the throw. fis theframe moves into its position, aligning the section 15 with the rail 19and with the right hand rail 18, the limit switch 21 will be actuated by'the cam member 23 opening its contacts 105 and closing its contacts1116. it will `be recognized that the opening of the contacts 105 of thelimit switch v21 will serve to directly de-energize the motor 21B andthe solenoid 98 of the locking means 27 without requiring the actuationof any intermediate relays.

With de-energization of the solenoid 98, the plunger Si? is springbiased to engage in the opening 8-1 as the frame 12 completes itsmovement -in-to the selected position. The extension of the plungereiects the closing ot the switch 110, and the energization of thecontrol relay 114 through the circuit described above, closing thecontacts 116, .117, 11S and k119 and opening the contacts 121i Iand 121.

The now closed contacts 116 complete a circuit from the power line L1through the now closed contacts 168 of the limit switch 22, a conductor175, normally closed contacts 176 of the latchin-g relay 166, aconductor 177, the contacts 1-16, la conductor 178 and the `actuatingcoil of the blocking contactor 38 to lthe power line L2.

The blocking contactor 38 is thereby energized closing its normally opencontacts A130, 181, 132 and 183. The contacts 1311 complete a circuitfrom the power line L1 through a conductor 185 to actuate the blockingcontactor 39 to energize the conductor bar por-tions 35e and 35d, whilethe contacts 181, 182 Iand 183 energize the conductor bar portions 35eIthrough conductors 134, 135, 136, `187 `and 18S (FIG. ll).

The carrier on the rail 18 which tripped the control switch 10G now canpass through the switch 10 leaving on the rail 19. Carriers approachingalong the rails l16 and 17 will, however, be stopped by 'the blocked ordeenergized conductor bar portions 35a yand 35b.

"the closing of the switch 11i), upon extension of the plunger Sii, alsoeects the completion of a circuit from the power line L1 through theconductor 112, a conductor 1941, closed contacts 163 of the latchedrelay 157, va conductor 191, the'unlatching coil 152 of the relay 157and a conductor `193 to the power line L2. This circuit unlatches the`mechanically held relay 157 returning it to its normal condition andplacing the circuit in readiness for the selection of another positionof the switch 19.

lt will tbe observed that during the `above described movement of theframe 12. the control relay 114 is in a deenergized condition Kand thelatching type relay =157 is mechanically held in. The `circuit istherefore conditioned, upon the closing of the control switch 160, toenergize the motor 20 for shifting of the switch `1? lto a preselectedposition, and the circuit will rem-ain so conditioned even though therebe -a power `failure -so that upon a return of the power the motor willcontinue to throw the switch to the selected position.

If it is now desired -to throw the switch to its center position, forexample to receive a carrier approaching 7 on the rail 17, the centercontrol switch 102 is closed ei-ther manu-ally or by the carrier itself.A circuit is thereby established from the power line L1 through thealready closed switch 110, conductors1-12 and 195, switch Y182,V aconductor 196, the latch coil 1737 vof hatching relay Y166 and a`conductor :193 to the power line L2, thereby mechanically holding inthe Vrelay r166, opening vthe normally closed contacts `165 and 176 andclosing vthevnormally open contacts 26h, v201, 262, 203 and 234 thereof.

Because the limit switches 21 andv 22 are now condiltioned as shown inFIG. 9, the closing of the contacts 262 completes fa circuit which/can`be traced from the power line L1 through ithe now closed contacts 186,a conductor 210, contacts 262, conductor 211, normally closed contacts`1:34, conductor 212, the latch coil 213 of the Vlatching relay 154 andconductor 214 -to the power -line L2, thereby mechanically latching andholding relay `154 with its normally open contacts 224), 221, 222 and223 VClosed and its normally closed contacts l153 and 225 opened. Acircuit can then Ibe traced from the power line L1 through the nowclosed contacts 106, conductors 21? and 227, now closed contacts 236,conductor 228,Y now closed contacts 222, conductor 171 and the `solenoid9S to the power line L2.

That circuit isA eiective to retract the plunger St) and open the switch116 in the manner described heretofore and resulting in thede-energiza-tion of the con-trol relay i114.' The opening of contacts1116 of the latter de-enlergizes the blocking contacter 38, `and in turnthe blocking contacter 39, to `de-energize the conductor bar portions355, 35d-and 35e.

The motor 261 is `energized through the limit switch 'contacts 106, nowclosed contacts 288, 120, and 226,

while the now closed contacts 221 connect the terminals T2 and T3 `forstarting the rotation of the motor limit switches are placed in thecondition illustrated in FIG. 8.

Opening of the contacts i106 directly de-energizes the motor and thesolenoid 98 of the locking means 27 permitting the locking plunger 80 tobe extended into Y the opening 82 when the frame 12 coasts into theposition in which the r-ail section 14 is aligned with the rails 17 and19. The switch 11@ is closed by the extending of the plunger 80energizing the control relay 1x14.

A circuit can now be traced -from the power line L1 through the nowclosed contacts 105 of the limit switch 21, conductors 15G and 230, nowclosed contacts 117 of the relay 114, a conductor 231 and the actuatingcoil Yof a relay 232 to the power line L2'. The resultant actuation ofthe relay 232 closes the normally open contacts 234 to complete Iacircuit from the power -line L1through Vthe still closed contacts 108 ofthe limit switch 22, conductor 175, now closed contacts 1219 of therelay 114,

' conductor 235, the contacts 234 and the blocking contactor 37 to thepower line L2. Y

'Ihe energization of the blocking contactor 37, and the closing of thenormally .open contacts 240 thereof, is effective to energize theblocking contactor 39 through a conductor 238. The closing ofthe-contacts 241, Y2.42,

243 of the contacter 39 is effective to energize the conductor barportions 35b through the conductors 134, 135, 186 and 245. The carrieron therail 17 can then proceed to pass through the switch 10.

The closing of the switch 1-10, upon locking by the plunger 80, alsocompletes a circuit including the conductors 112, 190, now closedcontacts 223, a conductor 247 and the unlatch coil 248 of therlatchingrelay 2:13. Energization of the coil 248 unlatches therelay 213`vreturning it to its normal condition. The consequent clos- Ving ofcontacts` 225 of the relay 213 completes a circuit through'conductorsV112, 250, now closed contacts 265,

of relay 165 and a conductor 254, thereby returning the 'latching relay16e-to its normal condition and placing the control circuit in readinessfor the selection of another operative position of the svm'tch 10. Y

If it is now desired to throw the switch 18 to the position in which therail section l1,5 once again is aligned with the left hand rail 16 andthe rail 19, for example to receive a carrier approaching along therailj16, the

Yleft control switch 181 is closed. Inasrnuch as the contacts 108 of thelimit switch 22 are closed as shown in FIG. 8 a circuit is establishedfrom lthe power line L1 through the contacts 138, conductor 266, switch16,1, conductors 261 and 211, contacts 164, conductor 212,latch coil 213of the relay 154 and the conductor 214V to Vthe powerline L2. Thecontacts of the relay 154 again complete a circuit for energizing thesolenoid 98 to Yunlock the frame :12 and open the switch 111) as wasde-V scribed with reference to the throwing of the switch Vto the centerposition'from the right rail aligning position.

The opening of the switch 110 de-energizes the relay 114 and eects theenergization of the motor 28 and the blocking of all of the conductorbar portions 35a, 35h, 35C and 35d. .lust before the frame 12 arrives atthe newly, selected1 position the limit switch 22 is actuated Yby thecam member 26 opening the contacts 168 and closing the contacts 197,thereby directly cutting off the lenergization of the motor Zit-andcie-energizing the solenoid 98 to release the locking plunger St?. Therelease of the plunger closes the switch `110 energizing the relay 114and thereby energizing the proper blocking contactors 36 and 39 toprovide current in the conductor bar portions 35C, 35d and 35e. Theclosing of the switch 114 also unlatches the relay 213 placing thecircuit in readiness to throw the switch 1G either to the centerposition or to the right rail aligning position. lf thrown now to thecenter position, it lwill berecognizedthat the relays A166 and 157 willbe actuated to energize the motor in the opposite direction to thateected by the relays 166 and 154 when the switch was thrown from theright Yhand rail aligning position to the center above.

Again, the relays 154, v157 and .166 are each of the mechanicallylatching type, thereby being adapted to condition the circuit so that aninterruption in power will not change the operation thereof upon aresumption'of power.

Although the blocking or bathing has been described as applied to allfour rails, 16, 17, '18 and 19, and although the carriers have beenreferred to as entering on rails 16, 17 and 18, the blocking can beomitted on any of the rails without altering the basic control circuitand the carrierscan enter along rail t19 and exit from any of rails outdeparting from the Vscope of the invention. For ex-` ample, the trames:11 and 12 could as well be on two levels, that is upper and lowerframes. Moreover, when the invention is embodied in shifting tongue typeswitches, previously mentioned, the movable frame may be reduced to asingle member, for example, the tongue itself.v

From the foregoing `detailed description of a specicV embodiment of theinvention, it will be apparent that the objects heretofore enumerated aswell as others-have been accomplished and that there has been provided anovel and improved material handling system including a switch controlcircuit which is simple and effective, Ireliable in operation, and sodevised that when the circuit is conditioned to throw the switch to aselected operative position the circuit will remain so conditioned untilthe throw is completed even though a temporary power supply failureoccurs. While the invention has been herein described position asdescribed Y with reference to a speciiic embodiment thereof, it isunderstood that the invention is not limited thereto, but rather theinvention includes all such adaptations, modifications and uses thereofas are reasonably embraced by the scope of the claims hereof.

Having described my invention, I claim:

l. In an overhead monorail carrier system, a switch having a rst frame;a second frame supporting said iirst frame for horizontal movementtransversely of a rail on one side of the switch; a reversible electricmotor mounted on one of said frames and connected by transmission meansto the other of said frames; circuit means for controlling said motorfor eiecting movement of said rst frame between irst, second and thirdpositions for selectively connecting said rail with any of three railson the other side of the switch to provide a continuous path of travelfor a carrier; said circuit means including iirst and second limitswitches mounted on one of said frames and actuatable by movementbetween said frames; solenoid operated locking means for releasablyretaining said first frame in said positions; a third limit switchactuatable by said locking means; first, second, and third controlswitches corresponding to said first, second, and third positions andadapted to be selectively connected by said iirst, second and thirdlimit switches respectively to a power conductor; latching relay meansresponsive to said iirst, second, and third control switches andconnected to said motor for energization thereof to elect movement ofsaid irst frame into said iirst, second and third positionsrespectively; and said rst and second -limit switches adapted todirectly de-energize said motor when said rst frame moves into aselected position.

2. In yan overhead monorail carrier system a switch having a iirstframe; a second trame supporting said first frame for horizontalmovement transversely of za rail on one side of the switch; a reversibleelectric motor mounted on one `of said frames and yconnected bytransmission means to the other of said frames; circuit means forcontrolling said motor for eiecting movement of said Erst frame betweeniirst, second and third positions for selectively connecting said railwith any of three rails on the other side of the switch to provide acontinuous path of travel for a carrier; said circuit means includingiirst and second limit switches mounted on one of said frames 'andactuatable by cam means on the other of said frames; solenoid actuatablelocking means for releasably locking said frame in said positions; athird limit switch actuatable by said locking means; rst, second andthird control switches for selecting said rst, second Iand thirdpositions respectively and connected on one side by said first, secondand third limit switches to a power conductor in accordance with theposition occupied by said rst frame; hrst, second and third latchiugtype relay means connected to said control switches on" the other sidethereof and adapted to be latched by said rst, second and third controlswitches respectively; said tirst, second and third relay meansselectively connecting said motor through said iirst and second limitswitches to said power line for energization of said locking means andsaid motor in a sense `to move said trst Vframe toward a selected one ofsaid positions; said iirst and second limit switches being effective todirectly de-energize said locking means and said motor when said trstframe moves into said selected position; and said third limit switchbeing effective to unlatch said first, second and third relay means uponsaid locking means locking said frame.

3. In an overhead monorail carrier system a switch having a rst frame, aSecond frame supporting said first frame for horizontal movementtransversely of a rail on one side of the switch; a reversible electricmotor mounted on one of said frames aud connected by transmission meansto the other of said frames; circuit means for controlling said motorfor eiecting movement of said iirst frame between first, second andthird positions for selectively connecting said rail with any of left,right and cenl ter rails respectively on the other side of the switch toprovide a continuous path of travel for 4a carrier; said circuit meansincluding rst and second limit switches mounted on one of said framesand :actuatable by cam means on the other Vof said frames; lockingmeans' for releasably locking said frame in said positions and having asolenoid for actuation thereof; a third limit switch actuatable by saidlocking means; rst, second and third latching type relay means; lirst,second and third control switches connecting said irst, second and thirdrelay means to a power line through said first, second and third limitswitches for selectively actuating said relay means; said solenoid andsaid motor being connected to said power line by said tirst, second andthird relay means through said tirst and second limit switches; saidiirst, second and third relay means being actuatable to energize saidsolenoid to unlock said first frame and to selectively energize saidmotor in directions effective to move said iirst frame into said fir-St,second `and third positions upon closing of said rst, second and thirdcontrol switches respectively; said iirst land second limit switchesbeing eiective to directly de-energize ysaid motor as said iirst framemoves into a selected one of said positions and to directly de-energizesaid solenoid for Ilocking of said rst frame in its selected position;and said third limit switch being effective to unlatch any of saidlatchiug type relay means upon actuation of said third limit switch =bysaid locking of said -iirst frame.

4. In an overhead monorail carrier system, a switoh having a rst frame;a second frame supporting said irst frame for horizontal movementtransversely of a rail on one side of the switch; a reversible electricmotor mounted on one of said frames and connected by transmission means-to the other of said frames; circuit means for controlling said motorfor e'ecting movement of said rst frame between iirst, second and thirdpositions for selectively connecting said rail with any of three railson the other side of the switch to provide la continuous path of travelfor a carrier; conductor bar means mounted on each of Said rails forenergization of carrier means; said circuit means including rst andsecond limit switches mounted on one of said frames and :actuatable bymovement between said frames; solenoid operated locking means forreleasably retaining said first frame in said positions; a third Alimitswitch actuatable by said locking means; iirst, second and third controlswitches corresponding to said iirst, second, and third positions andadapted to be selectively connected by said first, second and thirdlimit switches respectively to a power conductor; latchiug relay meansrespective to said rst, second, and third control switches and connectedto said motor for energization thereof to eiect movement of said rstframe into said rst, second and third positions respectively; aconductor bar control relay connected to said third limit switch landactuated in response thereto for de-energizing said conductor bar meansupon actuation of said locking means to release said first frame; andsaid rst and second limit switches adapted to `directly deenergize saidmotor when said first frame moves into a selected position.

5. In an overhead monorail carrier system a switc having a lirst frame;a second trame supporting said first frame for horizontal movementtransversely of a rail on one side of the switch; a reversible electricmotor mounted on one of said frames and connected by transmission meansto the other of said frames; circuit means for controlling said motorfor eecting movement of said first frame between rst, second and thirdpositions for selectively connecting said rail with any of three railson the other side of the switch to provide a continuous path of travelfor a carrier; conductor bar means mounted along each `of said rails forenergization of a carrier; said circuit means including iirst and secondlimit switches mounted on one of said frames and actuatable by cam meanson the other of said frames; solenoid actuatable locking means -forreleasablyflockingsaid frame said position; a-third limit'switchactuat'ab'le by saidflocking means; iirst,` secondV and Vthirdcontrol'switchesffor selecting said-tiret, second'and thirdpositionsrespectively and 'connected von one side by said Erst, second and thirdlimit *switches Vtoga Ypower conductor in accordance with Vthe positionoccupied by said rst frame; iirstfsecond and ,third latching type relay-means connected to 'said' control switches onthe other side Athereofand adaptedV to, be latc'hedY by said rst, second and third ycontrolswitches respectively; said first, second. and third relay Vmeansselectively 'connecting said motor through said irst and second limitswitches to said'power line for energization of said locking meansandsaidmotor in a senseto move vsaid llrst frame `toward a selected oneof said positions; Ya conductor bar control relayv connected to Vsaidthird limit switch for 4actuation in responseto actua-tion of saidlocking means; bale contactor means for said conductor bar means andconnected to saidrcontrol relayrfor actuation thereby vin accordancewith the `position ,of said frame; saidiiirstan'd second limit switchesbeing effective to directly Cle-energize said locking means and saidmotor when vsaid .rst frame moves into said selected position; andsaidthird limit switch being'elective to unlatch said rst, 'second andlthird relay means upon said locking means locking said frame. Y

' `6. In an overhead Vmonorail carrier system va switch having a rstframe, a second frame supporting said first iframe for horizontalmovement transversely of a rail on one said of the switch; a reversibleelectric motor mounted Y on oneofsaidframes and connected vbytransmission means to the other of saidframes; circuit means forcontrolling said motor :for effecting movement `of said'frst Iframebetween rst, second "and third'positions for selectively connecting saidrail with any of left,Y right .and center rails respectively 'on .the'other side of the switch to provide a continuous pathl of travel Yfor acarrier;'con' ductor bars mounted Valong each'of saidrails .forselective energization for providing powerfto carriersfollow ing saidcontinuous path of travelfand for cutting olf power to carriers notfollowing .said rpath of travel; said Ycircuit vmeans including rst andsecond switches .mounted onone of said 'frames and actuatable by cammeans on the other of said frames; lockingmeans for releasably lockingsaid -frame in said positions and having a solenoid for actuationthereof; a third limit switch Iactuatable by said locking means; aconductorfbar control relay connected to said third limit switch foractuation in response to locking and unlocking of said rst frame; rst,second and third latching type relay means; rst,

` second and third control switches connecting said first,

second and third relay means to a power line through said irst, secondand third limitl switches for yselectively actuatf ing said relay means;said solenoid and said motor` being connected to said power line by saidiirtst, second land third relay means through said rst and second limitswitches; said rst, second and third relay means being actuatable toselectively yenergize said motor in directions eiective to move saidirstv frame into said first, second and third positions upon closing ofsaid Iirst,'second and third control switches respectively; said rst andsecond `limit switches being effective to directly Yde-energize saidmotor as said lirst frame movesY into said positions and 'to -directlyde-energize said solenoid for locking of saidY g first frame in itsselected'position; and bae contacter c means for energizing saidconductor bars'and having the actuating coils thereof connected by saidcontrol relay to said first and second limit switches for actuation ofsaid baiile contactor means to de-energize said conductor bars `duringmovement of said iirst frame and to selectively Venergize the conductorbars corresponding to said continuous path of travel upon locking ofsaid rst frame in l its selected position.

References (Iited in the tile of this patent Y UNITED STATES, PATENTSGermany May 1, Y'192,9l

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION July 31, 1962Patent No. EMO/161,909

Henry A. Gorjanc It s hereby certified that error appears in the abovenumbered patent requiring correction and that the said Letters Patent.should read es corrected below.

Column 10, line 5()q for "respective" read responsive --2 column 1Iiline 30, for "said" read side Signed and 'sealed this 11th day ofDecember 1962.

(SEAL) Attest:

ERNEST w. swlDER DAVID L- LADD Commissioner of Patents Attesting Officer

